Türkiye’s sports minister blames federations for Olympic failure
Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Askin Bak congratulated national boxer Hatice Akbas, who won the silver medal in the women's 54 kilo category at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, France, August 9, 2024. (AA Photo)
Türkiye’s Youth and Sports Minister Osman Askin Bak did not hold back in his criticism of the country’s sports federations following their disappointing performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Despite significant investments and resources, Türkiye failed to secure a single gold medal, marking the first time since 1984 that the nation has returned home without the top honor.
Minister Bak made it clear that the federations will be held accountable for not using the provided opportunities effectively.
Bak criticizes federations for not utilizing resources effectively
Speaking directly to the media in Paris on the final day of the Olympics, Bak emphasized the level of support provided by the Turkish government. “The state provides opportunities. As the Republic of Türkiye, we have offered our sports federations the highest level of facilities.
These facilities are unmatched in many countries around the world. Yet, the federations that failed to use these opportunities effectively will be held accountable,” he said. His remarks came after a wave of public criticism directed at both the federations and the ministry itself for the lackluster performance at the Games.
Türkiye sent 101 athletes to compete in 18 sports disciplines in Paris, yet managed to win only three silver and five bronze medals. This result contrasts sharply with the expectations set by past performances, particularly the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where Türkiye won two gold, two silver, and nine bronze medals.
The minister acknowledged the athletes’ efforts, expressing gratitude for their dedication. “We know the efforts and potential of our athletes. We have always supported them and will continue to do so,” Bak stated. However, he placed the onus on the federations for not turning these efforts into gold.
Sharp decline in Olympic performance sparks nationwide discussion
The failure to win a gold medal, especially after the successes in Tokyo, has ignited a broader conversation about the state of Turkish sports. Many experts in Türkiye have debated whether Olympic success should be the sole measure of a nation’s sporting achievements.
Minister Bak’s strong words, however, suggest a firm stance from the government. The significant drop in Türkiye’s overall medal count has only added fuel to the debate. In Paris, Türkiye ranked 64th in the overall medal standings, a significant decline from the 20th position achieved at Tokyo 2020.
Bak highlighted the need for a collective introspection within Türkiye’s sports community. “Everyone must put their hat on the table and focus on the full and empty sides of the glass in front of them,” he urged. His call for accountability extended beyond the federations, suggesting that everyone involved in the sports sector – from the ministry to the athletes and even the media – should reflect on their roles in the disappointing outcome.
The upcoming period will likely see increased scrutiny on the federations’ strategies, training programs, and support systems, as the country aims to bounce back at the 2028 Olympics.
